Honolulu-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Beaches and Waikiki

  • Morning: Start your day with a visit to Waikiki Beach, one of the most iconic beaches in Hawaii. Enjoy the sun, sand, and surf.
  • 10:00 AM: Head to the Honolulu Zoo, located just across from Waikiki Beach. The zoo is home to over 1,000 animals, including monkeys, birds, and reptiles.
  • Lunch: Grab some lunch at Ono Seafood, a local favorite for poke bowls and other Hawaiian dishes.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Royal Hawaiian Center to learn about Hawaii’s rich history and culture. The center features exhibits on royal court etiquette, hula dancing, and traditional Hawaiian art.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at The Pig and The Lady, a modern Asian fusion restaurant with creative dishes and a fun atmosphere.
  • Accommodation: Stay at the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, a historic hotel located right on Waikiki Beach.

Day 2: North Shore Adventure

  • 8:00 AM: Take a drive to the North Shore, famous for its world-class surfing beaches and lush tropical landscapes. Be sure to stop at Sunset Beach, known for its massive waves.
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the Dole Plantation, where you can take a tour of the pineapple fields, enjoy a pineapple express train ride, or play a round of mini-golf.
  • Lunch: Grab lunch at Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, a local institution for delicious shrimp plates.
  • Afternoon: Head to the Polynesian Cultural Center to experience the rich cultures and traditions of Hawaii and other Pacific Island nations. Enjoy live music, dancing, and demonstrations of traditional arts and crafts.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Helena’s Hawaiian Food, a family-owned restaurant serving traditional Hawaiian dishes like laulau and kalua pig.
  • Accommodation: Stay at the Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach, a modern hotel with stunning views of the ocean.

Day 3: Diamond Head and Downtown

  • 9:00 AM: Hike up Diamond Head, an iconic volcanic crater that offers breathtaking views of Honolulu and the surrounding landscape.
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the Honolulu Museum of Art, which features a collection of Hawaiian, Asian, and European art.
  • Lunch: Grab lunch at The Pig and The Lady again (they’re really good!) or try some local cuisine at Ono Seafood.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Chinatown area, known for its vibrant street art, eclectic shops, and lively atmosphere.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Vino, a wine bar with a menu of small plates and creative cocktails.
  • Accommodation: Stay at the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa again (it’s just that nice!).

Things to Know:

  • Be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and walking around Honolulu.
  • Respect Hawaii’s natural resources and wildlife by not littering or disturbing the environment.
  • Learn some basic Hawaiian phrases like “aloha” (hello), “mahalo” (thank you), and “braddah” (brother).

Transportation:

  • Rent a car to explore the North Shore and other areas outside of Honolulu. Be sure to rent a 4x4 vehicle for navigating rough terrain.
  • Use public transportation or ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft to get around Honolulu.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to explore Hawaii’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Tips:

  • Don’t miss the sunset at Waikiki Beach - it’s truly stunning!
  • Try some local cuisine like poke bowls, laulau, and shave ice.
  • Be prepared for crowds and traffic in Honolulu, especially during peak season (December to April).
  • Respect Hawaii’s sacred sites and cultural practices by not taking selfies or disrupting traditional ceremonies.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Surfing: Take a surfing lesson at one of the many surf schools along Waikiki Beach.
  • Snorkeling: Explore the underwater world at Hanauma Bay, a protected marine sanctuary.
  • Food trucks: Try some local cuisine from the food trucks scattered around Honolulu.
  • Luau: Attend a traditional Hawaiian luau to experience live music, dancing, and feasting.